Personal Travel Experiences

Traveling has always been my passion. From the romantic canals of Venice to the vibrant streets of Bangkok and the bustling markets of India, each journey has left an indelible mark on me. Exploring new cultures, tasting exotic cuisines, and immersing myself in diverse landscapes have broadened my horizons and shaped my worldview. Whether wandering through the enchanting alleyways of Niece or gazing at the iconic landmarks of Paris, every adventure has taught me the value of curiosity, empathy, and the beauty of human connection. These experiences have not only enriched my life but also fueled my desire to continue exploring the wonders of our world.

Stanford Law & Mock Trial Program

Last summer, I attended the Stanford Law and Mock Trial Program where I spent ten days of intensive study on different aspects of law featuring several lectures by Stanford law professors, and worked with a team of students from across the country to learn about Mock Trial. Together, we thoroughly studied a case, and eventually competed against another firm at the San Fransisco Supreme Court at the end of the week. I worked extremely hard on our case, formulating our case theory, practicing questioning the witnesses, and reciting my 10 minute closing statement. It was my first time being away from home alone, but rather than feeling hesitant or scared, I made a bunch of incredible friendships along the way, connected with my mentors, and learned more about law in a week than I've learned in my entire life. On our last day, I was even given the Outstanding Attorney Award. It was a really incredible, enlightening experience, and is one I hold close to my heart.

Clubs & Activities

Panther Press - I have been writing articles for the Panther Press for three years now, and enjoy exploring journalism. I have written about school policy changes, new clubs/organizations in Holliston, and even fashion and movie reviews!

Mock Trial - I founded the Mock Trial club at the beginning of my junior year after attending Mock Trial Camp, and wanting to explore an activity that aligned with my future career goals of becoming a lawyer. I brought together a group of students, and we are set to attend the Massachusetts Mock Trial competition next school year!

Red Cross Club - I have spent time volunteering in Red Cross Club by hosting bake sales, and by helping out at the blood drive this year.

Model UN - I joined Model UN freshman year, and enjoy talking about international politics and participating in Model United Nations conferences as a delegate. This club has inspired me to explore foreign policy, global affairs, and more.

DECA - I have competed at DECA competitions for the last two years, and have a lot of fun preparing and competing each year! In our crazy consumer culture, its important to be educated on how business works, and DECA has taught me a lot about different business practices.

Superintendent's Advisory Counsel - I attend monthly meetings with the Superintendent and other students from around the school to give our imput on potential issues or changes we want made around the building. I find these meetings really constructive, not only in adressing my own concerns, but listening to what other students have to say.

Volunteering

MOHI Diwali

For the past two years, I've volunteered at MOHI in Holliston during the upcoming months before Diwali. Due to my extensive Indian classical dance background, I was initially given the oppurtunity to choreograph a dance for a group of beginner/non-dancers, and it proved to be a challenge. Nevertheless, I had a really great experience with it, and became close friends with everyone who I taught. I spent countless weekends choreographing, teaching them, giving corrections, and rehearsing the steps. The dance turned out really well, and I volunteered again this past year. Between last year and this year, I've volunteered a total of 300 hours at MOHI, and I intend on returning to choreograph this fall.

PADAM - Kuchipudi Dance

I am a Kuchipudi dancer, which is a type of Indian classical dance, and I often volunteer at my dance studio(PADAM) to teach and correct the younger groups of students. I spend an hour or two each weekend helping out, and have done around 150 volunteer hours there alone.

Cultural Activities

Kuchipudi & Bharatanatyam

I've been an Indian classical dancer for 13 years, learning both Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam, which are ancient Indian art forms. Dance has become a vital aspect of my identity, and helps me connect to my culture, heritage, religion, and community. Classical dances are centered around Hindu mythology, and dancers tell stories through their movements and facial expressions. In fact, my name (Abhinaya) means facial expressions in Indian dance, and embodies our use of emotions in order to tell stories. Dancing has allowed me to make some of the best friendships in my life, and even learn about how traditions and values differ from different states across India, appreciating the diversity that comes with it. 

Ranga Pravesam - My Ranga Pravesam, or arengetram, was in September 2023. It is a important milestone in any dancer's journey, and represents the completion of formal training, culminating in a grand performance acompanied by a live orchestra, including the mridangam, violin, flute, veena, and singer. I spent my entire summer beforehand working towards that day, and was one of the most rewarding experiences.

Competitions - I have competed in several Indian dance competitions, winning 1st place as a Kuchipudi soloist 5 times in the past year.

Carnatic Violin

I have been learning the Carnatic Violin for 12 years now, and I am dedicated to advancing in the craft. Violin is one of the most difficult instruments to learn in carnatic music (traditional Indian music with heavy religious influence) and I learn from my dad. I have also recieved advanced training from my guru in India, Sri Vittal Ramamurthy.

In the past few years, I've had the oppurtunity to work alongside professional carnatic musicians and singers, performing at several concerts as live accompaniment to Indian classical dance. I have played the violin for multiple arengetrams, and I have learned so much from the professionals around me. Come summer, I'm booked for three live orchestra performances, and I look forward to sharing my music.